Data collection forms a fundamental part of the research project. In order to obtain reliable data, basic ethical considerations must be put in place. Cell phone market data collection requires the researcher to reach different people in different places and of varied rank as well as people with diverse backgrounds.
One of the ethical concerns that are involved in this data collection is the legal consideration. Many retailers and the whole seller may legally not allow the person conducting the data collection process to access their data. This is because they have no trust in them. In the constitution, the act of law provides the right of privacy, which may be used to bar data collectors from data access. It is therefore ethical to obtain documentary permission stating and giving details and reasons for data collection.. It is therefore highly recommended that the researcher disclose his purpose of research to the respondents.
Another ethical concern is the privacy of respondents. People involved in business fear revealing information to strangers, due to the risk of business operation secrecy. Each and every business has its own way of maintaining its secrecy for better competition and economic purposes. So, some of the businesses may fear disclosing data that will bring adverse effects to their overall performance. So, the data collector must show secrecy and honesty to the respondents.
Respect is very important in doing research work. The participants may be contacted through their cell phones or in any other way. All in all, they duly need respect from the data seeker. For instance, courtesy and greeting are greatly required in all data collection processes. This indicates the integrity and conduct of the individual. This will consequently have an impact on the behavior of the respondent. Generally, the integrity of the researcher will protect the respondent secrecy and provide firm confidence for data retrieval from the respondent.
Reference
Conway, M.J. (1998): How to collect data: Alexandria.